1 Presented By: Devon Sivill, J.D.Dealing with Stigma around Special Needs: Promoting Positivity through behavioural comparisons Presented By: Devon Sivill, J.D.

2 Defining Stigma “1. (noun) a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person. 3. (in medicine) a visible sign or characteristic of a disease. A mark or spot on the skin”. – Google Dictionary “a set of negative and often unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about something”. - Merriam-Webster “1. a distinguishing mark of social disgrace”. - Collins English Dictionary

3 The Statistics Source: Statistics Canada. Canadian Survey on Disability 2012: Tables, Table 1.1 Prevalence of disability for adults by sex and age group, Canada, 2012, Catalogue no X, Ottawa, 2013.

4 The Statistics Source: Statistics Canada. Canadian Survey on Disability 2012: Tables, Table 1.1 Prevalence of disability for adults by sex and age group, Canada, 2012, Catalogue no X, Ottawa, 2013.

5 The Statistics Source: Statistics Canada. Canadian Survey on Disability 2012: Tables, Tables 1.1 to 1.14 Prevalence of disability for adults by sex and age group, Canada/province/territory, 2012, Catalogue no X, Ottawa, 2013.

6 The Statistics Source: ESDC calculations based on Statistics Canada. Canadian Survey on Disability 2012: Tables, Table 3.1 Adults with disabilities by type, sex and age group, Canada, 2012 and Table 2.1 Adults with and without disabilities by sex and age group, Canada, 2012, Catalogue no X, Ottawa, 2013.

7 Discussion Questions Is there an intrinsic apprehension related to the reception of special needs in the education system today? If so, why do you think that is? If not, what has been the biggest factor in silencing that historical apprehension?

8 Discussion Questions To what degree is our consumable media responsible for informing our own thoughts and opinions surrounding living with, or supporting individuals with special needs?

9 Discussion Questions In your experience, what are some best practices that you have used to share information and cultivate awareness around special needs in your schools/communities? Is there anything you’ve tried that hasn’t worked, why?

10 Discussion Questions How do we encourage honest and effective dialogue within the school system, particularly for those who don’t communicate using traditional methods?

11 Discussion Questions What are the greatest challenges/opportunities to community building around special needs for you, your child/student? What you make it easier to start and maintain those conversations?

12 Thank You & Questions Get In Touch!Web: LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/devon-sivill-21928ba5